Research shows that Irish farmers are at a “high risk” of nine main health issues.
That is according to a new publication entitled Farmers’ Health and Well-Being – A Guide to Staying Healthy While Farming – from the HSA and Farm Safety Partnership.
It lists the following health issues which farmers are at most risk of, which can increase your risk of a farming injury:
- Skin problems and cancers;
- Mental health issues;
- Overweight/obesity;
- Hearing loss;
- Stress;
- Stroke;
- Lung issues;
- Back pain;
- Heart disease.
Health Tips
It urges farmers to visit their GP if they feel unwell for any reason – including anxiety and stress.
The publication advises farmers that “early diagnosis and treatment may prevent your condition from worsening and may even save your life”.
Furthermore, it urges farmers to go for an annual health check at their local GP’s clinic to assess cholesterol, blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
Physical Health Tips
The publication looks at physical health and the importance of 30 minutes of “moderate activity a day”.
It also stresses the importance of staying hydrated, using exercise to stay fit and socialise, and listening to your body by stopping your activity if you feel dizzy or unwell or experience pain.
The authors point to research which suggests that a lack of activity causes 20% (1 in 5 cases) of heart disease cases and 10% (1 in 10 cases) of strokes.
In the publication, a spokesperson said:
“Many people think farming is a very active occupation, but that is no longer the case thanks to modern machinery.”
“While farmers are generally busy, you might not be as physically active as you think you are.”
“To stay healthy, you should be active at a moderate intensity, for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.”
“You will know you are moderately active if you are breathing faster than normal, your heartbeat is raised, and you feel warmer,” the spokesperson added.
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